I love Deep End Theater -- let me count the ways! Deep End has truly changed my life and become one…read moreof the most important communities I've ever been part of. First and foremost, Domeka is the real deal. She's lived and breathed improv and theater her whole life, studying, traveling, teaching, and learning from some of the greats. In the process, she developed her own approach to improvisation and theater that is deeper than many other styles, focusing more on what we can find in the depth of emergence together than on getting laughs or following any specific rules. She instantly creates a safe, welcoming space for everyone, meets each person where they are, and challenges them to take the next step. Her teaching is organic and approachable: she sets the work in motion, then helps us see how those exercises deepen our improv and stagecraft. Deep End is where I found myself as an actor and improviser. I stopped overthinking and started allowing scenes to emerge--without having to be clever or forced. The magic comes from surrendering to whatever develops: sometimes hilarious, sometimes deeply emotional, sometimes surreal or fantastical. The result is always honest, human, and wildly entertaining. And fun! Domeka has gathered a diverse, talented group of improvisers, and the shows she directs are treasures. I've gone to the same show multiple times and each performance is unique and delightful. She also brings in amazing guest teachers and performers for Skinny Dip, Master Classes, and special events, so the learning never stops. There are so many ways to plug in: Shows (nominal ticket, absolutely worth it--go to the same show more than once!), Skinny Dip open nights ($5 to watch, free to play), three-hour Master Classes on focused skills, six-week classes (two hours/week with a final performance), free intro Workshops, and occasional weekend intensives. For three years the weekly classes have been the highlight of my week--learning, collaborating, playing, laughing, crying, and growing in a supportive space. Deep End isn't about being funny or clever; it's about trusting each other, trusting the work, trusting oneself, and seeing what emerges. I'm becoming a better actor, improviser, and human--deeper in awareness, compassion, and connection. I can't recommend Deep End Theater enough. Try something: go to a Skinny Dip, see a show, take a Master Class, or join a six-week course. You'll leave energized, inspired, and changed--in a good way. I hope to see you there!

I've taken improv classes with several different groups/theaters and this is one of my favorites…read more Introduction to Sound Improv is fun and interesting, and at the same time safe and accepting. I would strongly recommend this class as a first improv class, especially if you're uncertain or anxious about it; you learn a lot here and it's a very safe place.

I think I've found my happy place! I attended my first Northwest Children's Theater production…read moretoday, and I loved everything about the experience. The bright and cheery environment, the excellent customer service, and the outstanding production left me feeling elated for hours after leaving the theater. I watched a brilliant jazz musical version of Alice in Wonderland today. What stood out to me most is the production didn't begin and end with a traditional raised and lowered curtain. Patrons experience the magic of theater from the moment they step foot in the building. Actors hand out stickers and welcome folks into the building. There are costumed characters in the lobby, and today, the Mad Hatter did crowd work in the audience for a full 15-20 minutes before the production began. By the time he walked up to the stage, the audience consisting of adults and children alike, were smiling and laughing and fully swept up into a joyous experience. I don't remember the last time I was this happy. The production was everything I'd hoped it would be. The costumes and set design well first-rate, the live music was exceptional, and the performers sold me on the fact that I, too, had found myself in Wonderland. It was truly heartwarming to see the actors mingling with the crowd in the lobby after the performance. To be six years old again, and have a chance to meet the Mad Hatter or Alice in person? It's just too precious! Northwest Children's Theater... I am a fan!

Daughter attended 2 weeks of summer camp here with a couple of friends and absolutely loved it. It…read morewas very well organized. The teachers were very good with the kids. And they put up a wonderful production at the end. I was worried that parking would be hard at rush hour in downtown. But you can park in the structure attached to their building and they'll validate the parking for you. We'll be returning next year for sure.

I've been an actor at this company for 5 years now and not once have I thought about leaving. After…read moreI did my first mainstage show at Lovegood I found out just how nice the whole community is. And I've even seen a handful of shows from this company like Beetlejuice which was just jaw dropping. The only issue I've ever had with this company was some actors being... something I can't really say here. I wish the company the best of luck in the future

A great staff and my child had such a great experience with their week long summer camp.read more

I don't live in Oregon anymore, and haven't for some time now. It's disgusting what your previous…read morestaff allowed to happen to my son. He was punched in the face by some kid, yet you threw my son out! How about you do the right thing, that should have been done years ago, and refund my $225 that I saved all year for the privileged of attending this camp to be ridiculed and abused!

From the truly devastating impact of NCLB on our schools that amounted to the destruction of…read morebudgets--that have little recovered--supporting art programs to our film industry that takes little risk and that in 2017 will have produced its 9th X-Men film, it is clear that art in this country is in crisis and really it has been for some time. PAC is an institution that pushes back against this force of pervasive cultural beiging, and it has done so for decades in Portland producing scores of young actresses and actors that now contribute to theater across the city and country. Highly recommended to visit their shows or participate in their classes.

I'm telling you right now, if you're an actor, you need to be coming to Joseph Bertot's class on…read moreTuesday nights. Why? Because he will flip everything you think you know upside down, and that's when you're going to LEARN. I started his class and was a little unsure at first - his high energy is unlike anything I've experienced from an acting teacher. I AM SO GLAD I STAYED. His focus on you and your work is unwavering. His dedication to you and the class is more than I've ever seen in a teacher. He is on time, professional, and he sets you up for success - but you better be ready to work and to bring YOUR best! The class is a mix of beginners and experienced actors - something I was unsure about, but have grown to LOVE. Why? 1) Everyone in the class brings their A game 2) You will come to see that every single person has talent, and every single person has something to work on. 3) Joe will take you, wherever you are at, and make you better, FAST. I've been acting for over 20 years and I've improved more in the past 2 months than I have with any of my past acting teachers. This is not the place to work out your childhood. This is the place to become a great actor and to learn the business. DO IT. PS - He is a legit, pro actor from LA with many big deal acting credits to his name, but he's humble and seriously wants to help you in any way he can.

Outstanding theater company in SE Portland…read more Most recently, we had the pleasure of seeing 21ten's production of "The Other Place," a thoroughly engaging and heartbreaking drama about a brilliant female scientist and her emerging understanding of her past. The show featured a dynamic local actress, Diane Kondrat, in the lead role. Quite a performance! The play was so memorable that several audience members returned for a second performance and brought their family and friends. The house is comfortably small and intimate, with excellent sight lines and inventive lighting and sound. 21ten's productions are well worth the ticket price. Truly quality theater in Portland.

I'm so happy to see new life breathed into this Portland classic. Theater is such a magical way to…read morebring people together, and we need it now more than ever.